Standards Development

Scope

This document specifies the interface specifications for multi-copter uncrewed aircraft docking system, which applies to maximum take-off mass (MTOM) level I through IV according to ISO 21895. It includes physical connection, data exchange, communication protocols, and security requirements This document is applicable to the design and manufacture of efficient connections and compatibility between docking systems and UAs from different manufacturers. It does not cover the functional and performance requirements of the docking system itself.

Purpose

The docking system is a subsystem designed specifically for UAS, enabling their direct deployment onsite. When not in operation, UAs remain in the docking on standby. During operation, the docking’s hatch automatically opens, allowing the UA to fly out and follow a pre-set route. Upon task completion, the UA automatically returns to the docking and begins recharging. This cycle allows for uninterrupted, around-the-clock task execution. The integration of the docking system with UAS addresses the inconvenience of manually transporting and the long commute times. The primary advantage of on-site deployment is the elimination of the need for human intervention, thus achieving fully automated task execution and enhancing operational efficiency. Consequently, the docking systems are widely used in various fields such as power grids, transportation, water resources, security, and forestry etc.

However, the current market faces compatibility issues due to varying interface protocols and technical specifications among different manufacturers and models of docking systems. This incompatibility between different docking systems and UAS necessitates additional data processing or format conversion for different protocols, requiring more resources for secondary development. This increases labour, material, and time costs, hindering the large-scale application of drones. To address these issues, it is necessary to propose a unified interface standard, allowing different manufacturers and models of docking systems to seamlessly connect with UAS from the same or different manufacturers and models, thereby promoting further industry development.

At present, there are no relevant standards among those published by various standard organizations. Among the ISO standards under development, ISO/NP 25215 specifies general requirements for the functions and performance of docking system, and ISO/AWI 24243 specifies test methods for the functional and performance requirements of docking system. This document supplements the basic standards, addressing the issues of compatibility and large-scale application of docking systems and UAS. During the 17th plenary meeting of ISO TC20/SC16, this proposal was presented as an NWIP report in the WG6 working group and the plenary session. Establishing a unified standard is of great significance for standardizing technical requirements for UAS and enhancing the overall industry level.